main characters

Question: Do the main characters have to have a last name and should those characters backgrounds (careers, hobbies, etc) be described at some point in the story, and if so where or when? (Early on in the story or at any point in the story.)

Answer: There are no rules about these things. Giving your character a last name usually is a way to make them seem more tangible and real, just like with any other trait you choose to give them.

Sometimes you will see books that are very introspective and character-driven in which the main character's name may be absent or reduced to a single name. The effect is to disassociate them a little from the kind of external world environment one would normally expect.

Often, a character is referred to primarily by their last name, especially in an action-driven, adult story. But you may see first names used primarily in children's or YA books.

Character backgrounds, like other traits, should appear when they are relevant to the story or when you want to make the main character seem more real to the reader or to build a connection or rapport between character and reader.

Again, there are no rules about when character background should appear. It all depends on your story.

Often a little information in the first chapter helps to build the connection between reader and character, but you don't want to create an infodump either. You may be better off choosing one particular detail or incident to relate that is indicative of the character's personality or approach to life rather than rattling off a lot of details that are trivial.

Other information about the character may be presented throughout the book when it's relevant.

"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but
your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I
understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident
that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards

"Thanks to your
"Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps,"
I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and
went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle
where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to
find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you,
I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic
Ragus

"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and
has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for
making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps
you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton,
U.S.A.

"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head,
but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time.
Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it
does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman

"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins

"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash

"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of
valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and
helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The
education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your
words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give
you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero